House vote on AHCA set for March 23

March 22, 2017Washington — The American Health Care Act could be up for a House vote as early as March 23.

That was part of a message the ADA sent out in a March 21 action alert to members, updating them on the proposed health care reform legislation to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. The AHCA, H.R. 1628, is expected to go before the House Rules Committee on the morning of March 22.

"President Trump and Speaker Ryan have been working with House members to make some additional changes, including allowing states to choose between block grant funding for Medicaid or a per capita allotment (per patient), as presently contained in the AHCA," the ADA wrote in the alert.

Two additional amendments that may be offered:

expanding the tax credit for individuals over age 50 to purchase health insurance.

allowing states the option to add work requirements for certain populations of adults as a condition of coverage in Medicaid.

"We are keeping a close watch on developments in the House and continue to meet with Senate offices to discuss the ADA's priorities," the ADA said. "It is also important to note that even if the AHCA passes the House, the Senate is likely to make significant changes to the legislation. Regardless of what may happen this week in the House, we will continue to advocate for the ADA's health care reform priorities that include:

Maintaining a comprehensive oral health benefit for children in Medicaid, also know as Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment.

Allowing states to continue to provide adult dental benefits in Medicaid.

Increased transparency by dental plans to ensure consumers have the ability to make sound purchasing decisions.

Expanding the use of tax-preferred accounts such as HSAs and FSAs, which can be used to pay for necessary dental treatment and prevention.

To receive the ADA's action alerts, sign up for ADA Engage. The Engage platform allows ADA members to contact their legislators and stay informed on critical public policy issues that affect dentistry. Sign up at cqrcengage.com/dental/home.